Mercer Announces Purchase Of Washington Brands

Mercer Wine Estates announced Wednesday it will acquire four Washington wine brands, Matthews, Tenor, Jaine, and Single Barrel, in a deal aimed at strengthening its vineyard-driven portfolio across the Columbia Basin.

The Prosser, WA-based Mercer operation says it has supplied grapes to the brands' owner, Avallé, for years, and the acquisition formalizes that long-standing relationship.

“We believe Washington has some of the most compelling vineyards and winemaking talent in the world, and this acquisition shows our commitment to that future,” said Rob Mercer, President of Mercer Ranches. “We know these vineyards, we know these wines, and we believe strongly in the teams behind them.  We are grateful to Avallé for their efforts to build these brands, and our goal is to continue showing how great the wines from the Columbia Valley can be.”

Maintaining Continuity

The winemaking team behind the four brands, Alex Stewart, Hal Iverson, and Andy Ferguson, will join Mercer’s existing team.

Alex Stewart, Hal Iverson, and Andy Ferguson bring decades of combined experience crafting some of Washington State’s most highly regarded wines.  Their work has earned top critical recognition across both red and white wines and helped elevate the Columbia Valley’s standing on the national stage.

They have worked extensively with Mercer vineyard sites throughout their careers, especially from the historic, singular site in the Horse Heaven Hills where the Mercer’s first planted Cabernet, bringing deep familiarity with the vineyards, farming practices, and fruit that define Mercer Wine Estates.

Jen Bell will join Mercer Wine Estates as Vice President, leading the Wine Division and overseeing the expanded portfolio. Bell brings nearly 25 years of experience in wine operations and portfolio strategy.

“Maintaining continuity was critical,” Mercer added. “The people behind these wines matter. This transition allows us to preserve what works while giving the brands a strong foundation for the future.”

The deal also expands Mercer’s footprint to Woodinville, WA, creating new opportunities for consumers in the Seattle area.  The acquisition agreement was signed March 10th. 

What Are Each Brand Known For?

• Matthews is known for its refined, Bordeaux-inspired wines sourced from some of the Columbia Valley’s most respected vineyard sites, with an emphasis on balance and structure. 
• Tenor focuses on 100% single-varietal wines from the Columbia Valley produced in limited quantities. The 2022 La Reyna Blanca Vineyard Chardonnay received the first-ever 100-point score awarded to a white wine from Washington State.
• Jaine focuses exclusively on dynamic white and rosé wines from sustainably farmed, single-vineyard sites across the Columbia Valley. Wines are crafted by Ali Mayfield.
• Single Barrel is built around distinctive, barrel-selected wines that highlight individuality and exploration within Washington viticulture. 

Mercer said in this week's announcement it is committed to sustainability and focused on showcasing the depth and excellence of wines produced in the Horse Heaven Hills.

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